Taichung: The opposition Kuomintang (KMT) has officially named Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang as the party's candidate for the 2026 Taichung mayoral race. This announcement was made during a news conference on Tuesday, signaling the party's strategic move as the city prepares for new leadership.

According to Focus Taiwan, KMT Secretary-General Lee Chien-lung revealed that Chiang emerged as the chosen candidate after surpassing another KMT lawmaker, Yang Chiung-ying, in a series of polls. Despite the competitive nature of the nomination process, Lee refrained from disclosing specific poll results due to an agreement between the candidates.

The decision to hold polls came after Chiang and Yang were unable to reach a consensus on who should step down from the race. Lee commended both candidates for demonstrating a commitment to democratic principles and ensuring a transparent and fair contest during the polling period.

The nomination became essential as the current Taichung Mayor, Lu Shiow-yen, also from the KMT, will complete her tenure at the end of 2026, having served the maximum two four-year terms. The KMT aims to maintain its leadership in the city by introducing new candidates for the upcoming election.

At the news conference, Yang expressed her respect for the poll results and pledged her full support to Chiang. She emphasized her intent to utilize her extensive experience in public service to assist Chiang in the campaign. Yang also called for party unity to secure a victory in the Taichung mayoral race against anticipated opponent, Legislator Ho Hsin-chun of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), in the November 2026 election.

Although Chiang did not attend the news conference, he is expected to address his nomination later in the day at the Legislative Yuan, further outlining his vision and strategy for the upcoming election.